Establishing a company in the Dubai Free Zone is a great option for investors looking to benefit from a stimulating economic environment and diverse investment opportunities. Thanks to its strategic location linking the continents of Asia, Europe and Africa, Dubai has become a global hub for trade and business, and its free zones provide innovative and diverse solutions that support the establishment and rapid growth of companies.
Dubai’s free zones offer a range of exclusive benefits, most notably 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local partner, which provides complete freedom of control and management for company owners. In addition, companies in these zones enjoy comprehensive tax exemptions, whether on income or profits, in addition to exemptions from customs duties on imports and exports, which enhances companies’ profitability and contributes to reducing operating costs.
The procedures for establishing companies in Dubai’s free zones are known for their speed and ease of completion compared to other markets, as they provide a flexible legal and legislative environment that makes it easy for investors to start their businesses in record time. Free zones also boast advanced infrastructure including world-class ports, international airports, and advanced logistics services, making Dubai an ideal starting point for accessing global markets.
In addition, free zones offer flexible office and commercial space options, including virtual offices and fully equipped facilities, allowing small and emerging companies to reduce costs without compromising on operational quality. This combination of economic incentives, administrative flexibility, and logistical support makes setting up a company in a Dubai free zone a smart move for investors seeking growth and prosperity in a globally competitive business environment.
How to Establish a Company in Dubai Free Zone
To establish a company in a free zone in Dubai, you need to follow the following steps:
Choose the type of company: Select the appropriate type of company for your business, such as a joint stock company, limited liability company, or partnership.
Choose the appropriate license: Select the type of license you need, such as a general commercial license, industrial license, or service license.
Choose and register the name: Choose a unique name for the company and ensure that it complies with the Dubai company naming regulations.
Determine the location: Choose the free zone in Dubai where you want to establish your company.
Submit the registration application: Submit the company registration application to the Dubai Free Zone Authority.
Submit the documents: Submit the required documents such as a copy of your passport, proof of address document, and a business plan.
Pay the fees: Pay the fees required to process the company registration application.
Review and approval: After reviewing the documents, the approval to establish the company will be issued.
Receive the trade license: After approval, you will receive a trade license that proves the legitimacy of your company.
Open a bank account: Open a bank account in the name of the company to manage financial transactions.
Compliance with regulations: Ensure compliance with all local regulations and controls in the free zone.
Getting Started: After obtaining the license, you can start operating your company and doing business.
Cost of establishing a company in a free zone in Dubai
Establishing a company in a free zone in Dubai is an attractive option for investors due to the many benefits it offers, but the costs associated with this process depend on a number of factors. These costs vary based on the type of company, the size of the business, and the commercial activities that the company intends to undertake. In addition, the cost of establishing a company varies depending on the free zone chosen, as there are several free zones in Dubai that offer various benefits and services.
One of the main factors that affect the cost is the type of license that the company needs. The types of licenses vary between trade, services, and manufacturing, and each type carries certain costs related to the license itself and the procedures associated with it. In addition, the costs include registration fees and fees for obtaining the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
Another factor to consider is office costs. Most free zones require a physical office or address for the company, and rental costs vary based on the size of the space required and its location within the free zone. Some areas offer flexible options such as virtual offices or shared spaces to reduce costs for startups.
Costs also include fees for opening a company bank account, as well as visa fees for employees and investors. These fees may vary depending on the number of visas required and the type of jobs within the company.
While there are some costs associated with setting up a company in a Dubai free zone, the many benefits such as tax exemptions and full foreign ownership make up for these costs and make Dubai an ideal destination for startups and companies looking to expand.
Etqan Company Services for Establishing a Company in the Free Zone
Etqan Company is one of the leading companies in the field of establishing companies in the Dubai Free Zone, providing a wide range of services designed to facilitate the process of establishing businesses for investors and entrepreneurs. The following are the most important services provided by Etqan Company for Establishing Companies in the Dubai Free Zone:
Company Establishment Consultations: Etqan provides specialized consultations on how to establish a company, starting from choosing the appropriate type of company to determining the most appropriate free zone based on your business activity. The specialized team helps understand your needs and provide the best solutions to achieve your goals.
Licensing and Registration Procedures: Etqan Company handles all procedures related to obtaining the required commercial licenses. This includes submitting the necessary documents, following up on the registration process with the relevant authorities, and expediting legal approvals.
Preparing Legal Documents: Etqan undertakes to prepare all legal documents required to establish the company, such as the articles of association, lease contracts, and commercial agreements. It also ensures that all documents comply with local laws and legal standards.
Office and Commercial Space Services: The company provides flexible office solutions, such as virtual or shared offices, which allow startups to start their businesses at lower costs. It also offers office and commercial space rental options within the free zones.
Visa and Immigration Services: Itqan contributes to facilitating the issuance of work visas for investors and employees, in addition to following up on all procedures related to immigration and residence in the UAE.
Opening a Bank Account: The company provides full support in opening bank accounts for companies, including advising on banks suitable for the company’s requirements and coordinating with banks to expedite the process.
Accounting and Tax Services: Itqan provides accounting and financial management services for companies, including preparing financial reports and complying with local tax and financial regulations.
Continuous Post-Incorporation Support: Itqan’s services are not limited to incorporation only, but the company provides continuous support after incorporation to ensure that the company complies with all legal and administrative requirements. This includes license renewal, preparing annual reports, and ongoing advisory services.
Legal Support Services: Itqan provides full legal support to companies regarding commercial contracts, legal disputes, and compliance with local laws.
Strategic Guidance: The company provides strategic advice on how to expand in the local and regional market, as well as how to benefit from the economic environment in Dubai to achieve success.
In conclusion, establishing a company in a Dubai free zone is an ideal option for investors and entrepreneurs looking for a stimulating and flexible investment environment. The many advantages that Dubai offers, such as full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and complete freedom to transfer profits and capital, make it an attractive destination for investors from all over the world. In addition, free zones are characterized by advanced infrastructure and fast and flexible procedures for establishing companies, which enables investors to start their businesses in a short time and benefit from commercial opportunities available locally and internationally.
Dubai is considered a gateway to global markets thanks to its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, which makes it easy for companies to access diverse markets and conduct business on a large scale. Free zones provide a stimulating and innovative business environment, where companies can focus on their growth and expansion without worrying about high operating costs or legal complications.
In addition, the facilities provided by free zones, such as providing flexible office options and business support services, contribute to reducing the burden on startups, allowing them to focus on developing their businesses and expanding their operations. The ability to employ foreign workers without restrictions is an added advantage that helps companies benefit from the diversity of the global workforce.
Ultimately, setting up a company in the Dubai Free Zone is not just an investment opportunity, it is an investment in the future in a stable and prosperous economic environment. Thanks to the continuous government support and facilities available, Dubai remains one of the best destinations in the world to establish companies and achieve long-term commercial success.
The most important frequently asked questions about setting up a company in the free zone
Can foreigners set up a company in the free zone?
Yes, foreigners can set up a company in the free zone and have 100% ownership without the need for a local partner.
Can I employ foreign workers for my company in the free zone?
Yes, foreign workers can be employed in your company within the free zone, and free zones allow easy issuance of work visas for employees.
How much does it cost to set up a company in the free zone?
Costs vary based on several factors such as the type of business, the size of the company, and the selected free zone. Costs include licensing fees, office rental fees, and visa issuance fees.
How long does it take to set up a company in the free zone?
Procedures in free zones are usually quick and flexible, and may take from a few days to several weeks depending on the type of activity and procedures required.
